Jump N Roll HD: Just Don’t Call It Sonic For Sega

Jump N Roll HD, by developer games2be, reminds us of a lot of things: Old school Sega titles, loads of afternoons spent behind a platforming title on our favorite console, and endless amounts of quarters at the local pizza joint. No matter how you slice it, though, the app is a beautiful throwback to a day when all a game needed to be successful was a few power-ups and a whole lot of jumping. It’s not the perfect retro arcade title (the controls and level design leave a lot to be desired) but considering just how warm and fuzzy the app makes us feel, we’re willing to overlook Jump N Roll HD’s niggles.

Concept and Gameplay

As mentioned, Jump N Roll HD looks and behaves a lot like those old school arcade titles you likely played as a kid. The app has its users guiding an ambiguously shaped orange protagonist across side-scrolling levels in search of coins, stars, and other various power-ups that help the player get the job done. Jump N Roll HD keeps things simple by offering only two control buttons: One for jumping, and one for dashing forward quickly to eliminate enemies. Both of these draw upon the green energy bar along the top, which depletes and refills with time and point collection.

All in all, it’s a combination that has us wetting our Sonic print underpants. However, our nostalgia was slightly tempered by the fact that Jump N Roll HD’s levels often leave a lot to be desired. There are three courses here for players to speed through, and though we loved the platform hopping action, we found the platforms themselves very often oddly spaced. We’d jump one hurdle only to precariously fall down another without, seemingly, any way to avoid the catastrophe. Likewise, the second tier of platforms hidden in the back is even more difficult to navigate. We aren’t against a challenge, but we would certainly like a little more consistency to guide the eye.

Controls and Graphics

Jump N Roll HD for iPad

As little as we like the levels, we do have to admit that the game’s controls are spot on. We appreciate immensely the simplicity the two buttons offer, as well as the touch optimization for the iPad’s larger real-estate. The graphics, too, were top-notch, offering a fresh world of bright colors and energetic sprites. The phrase “eye candy” comes readily to mind, and deservedly so where Jump N Roll HD is concerned.

Overall Value

Jump N Roll HD is free in the App Store, but like a lot of games these days, the app will do everything it can to entice your in-app purchase money. This includes unlocking new levels, and though we love the title’s gameplay, we still aren’t a fan of this pricing scheme. That being said, any free app that’s this delicious easily deserves a test drive: Especially for fans of the genre.

Jump N Roll HD requires iOS 3.2 or later and is compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch. A small expedite fee was paid by the developer to speed up the publication of this review.